HEAD START CENTER DESIGN GUIDE

1.2 Users of the Guide

The guide is intended to be a source of basic architectural information for individuals involved in the design of centers used for children. Readers should also refer to the Head Start Performance Standards, 45 CFR 1304, et seq. Specific users of the guide include:

Architects and Engineers (A/Es) who will provide design services under contract with local Head Start grantees. In addition, these A/Es may use the guide for pre-design planning or to assess the extent of improvements required in an existing center.

Head Start Regional Offices, which will use the guide to help interpret the level and type of features and finishes to be provided in centers.

Head Start Bureau staff, who will use the guide for reference and to offer guidance to the Regional Offices and grantees.

Head Start design team members, including administrators, teachers, other staff members, parents, and others.

Head Start staff members, such as program managers, agency administrators, financial officers, center directors, facility managers, and others concerned with facility design and management may refer to the guide, especially when they contract with private architectural firms to establish new centers or renovate existing ones. Head Start staff, parents, board, Policy Councils, and others interested in Head Start space may also find the guide useful.

Head Start Quality Improvement Centers, which will use the guide to offer technical assistance to grantees.